Multi-Depth Laser Engraved Security Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security devices for identity documents, such as passports, can be vulnerable to counterfeiting and modification through plane sanding, as the areas capable of being etched are typically in a single flat layer, allowing access and alteration of the engraved patterns.
Innovation Solution
The security device features at least two zones capable of being engraved by laser, arranged at different depths with a security film interposed between them, making it difficult to access all zones simultaneously by sanding and thus protecting the engraved pattern from modification or destruction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If areas capable of being etched are produced in a single flat layer parallel to the plane of the support, then the engraving process is simple and the engraved pattern is accessible, but counterfeiters can easily reach and modify the engraved pattern through plane sanding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-flat-layer structure to a multi-depth-layer structure. Engraved areas are distributed across at least two different depths within the support, making it impossible to access all engraved patterns through single-plane sanding. This dimensional transformation fundamentally changes the attack surface from two-dimensional to three-dimensional space.
Solution Approach 2:
The support is segmented into multiple depth levels, with each level containing specific engraved areas. This segmentation isolates engraved patterns at different vertical positions, so that sanding at one depth plane cannot access patterns at other depth planes, thereby protecting the engraved information from unauthorized modification.
2Reliability
If a security film is inserted between two layers before lamination, then the security film protects against sanding from its side, but sanding is still possible from the other side of the support
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of relying on a single security film at one depth plane, the patent distributes engraved areas across multiple depth planes. This multi-depth arrangement means that no single sanding approach from either side can access all engraved patterns, effectively neutralizing the limitation of single-side film protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The support is constructed as a composite structure combining the support material with multiple depth layers containing engraved areas. This composite structure integrates the protection function across multiple depths, making the system more resilient to sanding attacks than a single-layer design with a single security film.
3Reliability
If at least two zones capable of being engraved are arranged at at least two different depths, then access to all zones by sanding becomes difficult, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the depth dimension to arrange multiple engraved zones at different vertical positions within the support. This three-dimensional arrangement ensures that sanding at any single plane cannot access all zones, as each zone resides at a different depth level, thereby enhancing security without requiring complex external protection mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The engraved zones are nested within the support structure at different depths, similar to nested dolls. Each zone is contained within its specific depth plane, and the layered structure allows the support to protect inner zones from outer sanding attempts, while maintaining a relatively simple overall manufacturing process.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution significantly enhances the protection of the engraved pattern by making it harder to access and modify, as sanding to reach one zone would destroy another, and the security film further complicates access, ensuring the pattern's integrity and authenticity.
Implementation Method 1
Each of said at least two zones (5a-5d) comprises a transparent part (11) and an opaque part (12)... capable of being etched by laser
Implementation Method 2
The laser beam (13) comes to heat the transparent part (11) located nearby. This heating carbonizes said material and produces a point (14), typically black
Implementation Method 3
The opaque part (12) stops the laser beam (13) which locally burns the nearby transparent part (11)
Implementation Method 4
at least one security film (9) interposed between two of said at least two zones (5a-5d)... further complicates access by sanding to an engraved pattern
Implementation Method 5
produce a substantially thin and planar support for a security device, by joint lamination of different layers of plastic materials
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
Figure 7~9
AI summary
The device (1) has a main extension provided approximately according to a plane, and including two zones (5a, 5b) that are ready to be engraved by laser. The two zones are placed at two different depths (8a, 8b). An engraved pattern is distributed between the zones. The two zones are provided as disjoined or contiguous extensions. One of the two zones is provided with a transparent part (11) and an opaque part (12). A transparent safety film (9) or variable optical device film is inserted or plated at an intermediate depth between the two zones. An independent claim is also included for a method for manufacturing a safety device.